Off Wheeler Draught Horse 1861

Wheelers were the two horses at the back of the team, nearest to the limber when harnessed up. The drivers sat on the near side horses while the off side horses carried a valise. This was a cylindrical cloth container, 27 inches long with the ends 6.5 inches in diameter embroidered with the letters R H A. A blanket was rolled around the valise, a folded corn bag laid on top, and the whole thing was covered with a black Ukraine lambskin. The valise was packed with spare clothing, cleaning kit, and a Bible and prayer book. In marching order the circular water bottle was strapped just below the valise as seen here. These details are taken from the 1864 Dress Regulations which also describes the contents of leather wallets seen in other images, strapped in front of the saddle. These four photos were taken in 1861, perhaps prior to the introduction of the wallets. The driver holding the bridle has the tall busby worn prior to 1888. In 1864 It was ordered to be 8.25 inches high at the front and 9.25 inches high at the back but it looks taller in this photo. The Officer’s busby in the same DR was 7.5 inches high at the front.
The photos were published in Horses and Saddlery by Major G Tylden.

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